Bill > S1442

This bill, titled the "Idaho Refugee and Illegal Alien Accountability Act," establishes new requirements for entities involved in refugee resettlement and for law enforcement agencies regarding arrested individuals. For refugee resettlement, any entity incorporated in Idaho that provides resettlement services must submit an annual audit to the legislature detailing the number, nationality, gender, language abilities, placement locations, housing, and health statistics of refugees served, and is prohibited from harboring or assisting "illegal aliens" (defined as individuals not lawfully present in the United States). Furthermore, these entities must account for any "illegal aliens" receiving resettlement services to allow for matching with federal immigration databases. Regarding arrested individuals, all state and local law enforcement agencies must verify and record the immigration status and nationality of anyone arrested as part of the "administration of criminal justice" (which includes activities like apprehension, detention, and prosecution). By October 1, 2026, these agencies must submit biannual reports to the state controller detailing the immigration status and nationality of arrested individuals, crime statistics related to arrested "illegal aliens," and any reasons for noncompliance, with the attorney general empowered to seek legal action and potentially withhold state funding if agencies fail to comply. The bill also declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs, Justice

State Affairs Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1442/